Our Community

Mrs Margaret Smith OAM

Mrs Margaret Christine Smith (Ingram ’65) received a Medal of the Order of Australia for her service to the community, particularly children and youth. Margaret is Chief Executive Officer and inaugural Chairman of the Children First Foundation. She was also the General Manager of the Queen's Trust for Young Australians, from the early ‘80s to ‘99, when it merged with the Australian Youth Foundation to become the Foundation for Young Australians. With Margaret’s passionate drive and determination to help the disadvantaged in the world, the Children First Foundation has thrived. Along with daughters Belinda Sharpe (Smith ’91) and Natalie Langlands (Smith ‘94) Ruyton is very proud of Margaret’s achievements. ‘I have very fond memories of living in the Boarding House at Ruyton. I enjoyed wonderful camaraderie during that time and also developed a growing independence. I remember when Miss McRae became headmistress. She inspired us all to do our best and to achieve as progressive women.’

Ruyton has an outstanding reputation for excellence in the education of girls and young women. This reputation is founded on strong academic results and high levels of participation in co-curricular activities.